Skip to main content

Stovetop Quinoa

This grain-like seed is quick to cook and has an earthy flavor that goes well in salads, soups and stews.
Bowls of cooked quinoa.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 3 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (if not pre-rinsed, rinse well using a fine-mesh strainer)
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, if desired, and return the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and simmer for 12 minutes.
  4. Turn off heat and let stand until water is absorbed and quinoa has the texture you like, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • For more flavor, cook with broth or milk instead of water.
  • For a roasted flavor, toast the grains in the saucepan. Stir the grains around at medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid.
  • Topping ideas: fresh, frozen or dried fruit; milk or yogurt; chopped nuts or seeds; cinnamon or other spices. Savory toppings include vegetables and cheese.
  • Add to soups, grain bowls or grain salads.
  • No strainer? Use a clean coffee filter.

Comments

This is a no-fail way to cook quinoa. Turning off the heat and letting it sit to soak up remaining water keeps it from being soggy and overcooked.

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Cilantro Lime Tuna Wrap
Tortillas folded over a creamy vegetable filled tuna mixture with lime wedges on a plate.

Cilantro Lime Tuna Wrap

A light and flavorful meal using canned tuna, fresh veggies and a tangy mayo dressing.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
5 Wraps
Waldorf Salad
Bowl of creamy apple, celery and walnut mix.

Waldorf Salad

Crunchy apples topped with walnuts, raisins and a creamy dressing.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Salmon Pasta Skillet
Bowl of pasta shells and salmon garnished with parsley.

Salmon Pasta Skillet

Whole grain pasta, canned salmon and tomatoes come together for a delicious and nutritious pasta meal.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Pineapple Salsa
Bowl of pineapple salsa

Pineapple Salsa

Full of flavor and easy to make, this salsa is perfect for a party or a tasty snack any time.
Prepare:
10 to 15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Peach Cooler
Glass filled a thick peach smoothie.

Peach Cooler

A cool, creamy and refreshing drink. Try it on a hot day or as part of a quick and easy breakfast.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Raspberry Fruit Dip
Bowl of yogurt raspberry dip served with sliced apple and pear.

Raspberry Fruit Dip

A sweet and creamy dip that comes together in a few minutes. Perfect for dipping fruit!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
8 Servings